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Learning Objective:
By the end of this presentation participants will be able to have an understanding of how to develop a hepatitis prevention, testing and treatment program in a rural based community health center.
Background:
In May 2002, the PCS Community Health Center combined the Hepatitis C and HIV counseling and testing programs. Based on information gathered, which indicated a need for expanding services. Also, that an increased need for specialized expertise for treatment and financial assistance was needed. PCSHC is a state piloted program for free home access test kits for Hepatitis C clients.
Setting:
The health center is located in the rural mid-western panhandle of Nebraska with a population of 80,000 in 20,000 square miles.
Population e.g. API Youth, MSM, IDU:
The panhandle population consists primarily of Whites, Hispanics and Native Americans. Our clinic is a primary Ryan White Title III site.
Project Description:
Prevention and testing: In May 2002, PCS HIV program began offering Hepatitis C testing and counseling to the public. Counseling includes many high risk settings such as Detox Center, county Jail, Juvenile Detention Center and substance abuse treatment sites and offer services to the Migrant populations. Hepatitis B Vaccination: In June 2003 collaboration with Nebraska Health and Human Services donated Hepatitis B vaccine for at risk populations to detox and substance abuse sites. Treatment: PCSHC contracts with an internal medicine physician to conduct onsite Hepatitis C clinics, hepatitis training to providers and staff, and consults with PCSHC providers between clinics.
Results/Lessons Learned:
Increased awareness among providers, staff and the community increases the number of clients presenting for testing, counseling and treatment. Improved medical care of Hepatitis clients is the outcome of a comprehensive team approach to treatment. Innovation by the PCSHC staff in the development of our Hepatitis program can be a model for similar clinics.
See more of Poster Session #2
See more of The 2005 National Viral Hepatitis Prevention Conference